It is a term coined in the early 1900’s in the USA for organisations which were organised from the bottom up rather than by top down command & control. They are usually considered more spontaneous and natural than traditional political structures.

The Northern Ireland Peace movement inspired by Mairead Maquire and Betty Williams is an example of a grassroots movement. An organisation inspired and organised by ordinary people with extraordinary passions.

There is another type of organisation that disguises itself as a grassroots movement. It is called an “astroturfing” movement. This is an organisation that attempts to mask its origins by making itself appear as though it originates from and is supported by grassroots participant(s).

It is up to you to make your own mind up as to whether Grassroots Out is a “grassroots” or an “astroturfing” organisation